Object Details
Summary
These are 21 Rene' 41 retainers that secured the Rene' 41 shingles on the outside of the Gemini VI capsule. The shingles protected the capsule from the tremendous heat generated during reentry into the Earth's atmosphere. Rene' 41 is made largely of nickel, chromium, cobalt, and molybdenum. Carrying astronauts Walter M. Schirra and Thomas P. Stafford, Gemini VI was launched on December 15, 1965 on a two-day flight. It achieved the first space rendezvous ever with Gemini VII. These retainers were removed from the capsule after the flight. Their manufacturer is unknown. NASA transferred them to NASM in 1968.
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Inventory Number
A19680266014
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Parts & Structural Components
Materials
Rene' 41
Dimensions
Largest plate: 3 7/8 x 1 7/8 x 1/16
Smallest plate: 2 3/8 x 1 7/8 x 1/16"
Paper tags: 5 3/4 x 2 7/8 x 1/16"
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19680266014